Red Stag by Jim Beam is a bold bourbon infused with natural black cherry flavors that adds a unique twist to classic cocktails. Its rich and smooth profile makes it a versatile base for a variety of drinks that can suit any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or looking to impress guests with creative mixes, Red Stag offers plenty of delicious possibilities.
We love experimenting with Red Stag drink recipes because the cherry notes bring a vibrant depth that pairs well with everything from citrus to spices. These cocktails are easy to make and perfect for those who enjoy a balance of sweet and smoky flavors. Let’s explore some of our favorite Red Stag recipes that are sure to elevate your next happy hour or weekend unwind.
Ingredients For Red Stag Drink Recipes
To craft delicious Red Stag drink recipes, having the right ingredients on hand is essential. Below, we break down the must-have components and some versatile options to elevate every cocktail we mix with Red Stag by Jim Beam.
Essential Ingredients
When working with Red Stag bourbon, we focus on ingredients that highlight its natural black cherry flavor and smooth bourbon base. These essentials form the foundation of our favorite Red Stag cocktails:
- Red Stag by Jim Beam (50ml per serving)
- Premium ice cubes (large and clear preferred to slow dilution)
- Simple Syrup (1:1 sugar and water, adjustable sweetness)
- Fresh Lime Juice (15-20ml, for a bright citrus kick)
- Fresh Lemon Juice (15-20ml, balances sweetness with acidity)
- Club Soda or Sparkling Water (to add refreshing effervescence)
| Ingredient | Purpose | Typical Quantity |
|---|---|---|
| Red Stag bourbon | Primary spirit, cherry-flavored bourbon | 50 ml per cocktail |
| Ice Cubes | Chill drink, control dilution | As needed |
| Simple Syrup | Sweetener | 10-20 ml |
| Fresh Lime Juice | Adds citrus tartness | 15-20 ml |
| Fresh Lemon Juice | Adds acidity and balance | 15-20 ml |
| Club Soda | Adds fizz and lightens drink | 30-60 ml or to taste |
These ingredients allow us to showcase the rich cherry notes of Red Stag while balancing sweetness and acidity for a smooth, layered profile.
Optional Mixers and Garnishes
To personalize each Red Stag cocktail, we often add optional mixers and garnishes that complement or enhance the bourbon’s flavor:
- Ginger Beer: Adds spicy warmth and fizz, perfect for a twist on the classic mule
- Cola: Pairs well with cherry bourbon for easy highball versions
- Orange Bitters: Small dash adds aromatic complexity and depth
- Fresh Fruit Slices: Lime wheels, orange twists, or lemon wedges brighten presentation and flavor
- Fresh Herbs: Mint or rosemary sprigs uplift aroma and offer visual appeal
- Maraschino Cherries: Intensify the cherry profile and add a vintage cocktail touch
We recommend always having a selection of these options ready to experiment with. They help us tailor the Red Stag drink experience according to mood, season, or guests’ preferences.
Tools And Equipment Needed
To craft the perfect Red Stag drink recipes, having the right tools and equipment ensures precision, consistency, and enjoyment in every sip. Let’s run through the essentials that will help us master each cocktail with ease and style.
Glassware
Choosing the proper Glassware enhances both presentation and taste. Here are the recommended types we rely on for our Red Stag creations:
- Old Fashioned Glass (Rocks Glass): Ideal for stirred or on-the-rocks cocktails like the classic Red Stag Old Fashioned.
- Highball Glass: Perfect for tall, refreshing mixed drinks such as Red Stag and ginger beer.
- Coupe or Martini Glass: Best suited for served-up cocktails that require chilling and no ice.
- Collins Glass: Good choice for fizzy, soda-based Red Stag cocktails.
- Whiskey Tumbler: Great for neat pours or simple bourbon showcases.
| Glass Type | Common Use |
|---|---|
| Old Fashioned Glass | Stirred cocktails on the rocks |
| Highball Glass | Tall mixed drinks with mixers |
| Coupe/Martini Glass | Chilled cocktails without ice |
| Collins Glass | Fizzy, soda-heavy recipes |
| Whiskey Tumbler | Neat bourbon or simple serves |
Measuring Tools
Precision in our cocktail components unlocks the true flavors of Red Stag bourbon infusions. These tools keep our balance spot on:
- Jigger: Typically graduated in 0.5 oz and 1 oz measures; crucial for accurate spirit and mixer quantities.
- Measuring Spoons: Optional for syrups, bitters, or small-volume additions.
- Pour Spouts: Assist with consistent free-pouring and speed without wastage.
Mixing Tools
Proper mixing enhances aroma and texture, turning our recipes into sensory delights. Essential mixing implements include:
- Cocktail Shaker: A Boston or Cobbler shaker chills and blends ingredients smoothly.
- Bar Spoon: Long-handled spoon perfect for stirring cocktails in the glass or shaker.
- Strainer: Hawthorne or fine mesh strainers keep ice shards and pulp out for a clean pour.
- Muddler: Useful to gently crush fresh fruits, herbs, or cherries to release vibrant flavors complementing the black cherry notes in Red Stag.
- Ice Bucket & Tongs: Keeps ice fresh and handles clean for consistent chilling.
Classic Red Stag Drink Recipes
Let’s explore some Classic Red Stag Drink Recipes that beautifully showcase the bold cherry essence and smooth bourbon base. These tried-and-true cocktails are simple to craft yet deliver layers of flavor perfect for any occasion.
Red Stag Old Fashioned
The Red Stag Old Fashioned is a sophisticated twist on the timeless cocktail, highlighting the bourbon’s cherry notes with subtle sweetness and aromatic bitters.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz Red Stag by Jim Beam
- 1/2 oz simple syrup
- 2 dashes Angostura bitters
- Orange peel (for garnish)
- Maraschino cherry (for garnish, optional)
- Ice cubes
Instructions:
- Add simple syrup and bitters to an Old Fashioned glass.
- Fill the glass with large ice cubes.
- Pour in 2 ounces of Red Stag bourbon.
- Stir gently to combine and chill the mixture evenly.
- Express the oils of an orange peel over the glass then drop it in as garnish.
- Optionally, add a maraschino cherry for an extra burst of color and flavor.
Tip: Using large ice cubes slows dilution to keep the cocktail smooth and balanced.
Red Stag Lemonade
For a refreshing, tangy drink, the Red Stag Lemonade perfectly balances the natural black cherry sweetness with citrus brightness.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Measurement | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Red Stag bourbon | 2 oz | Bold cherry notes |
| Fresh lemon juice | 1 oz | Freshly squeezed |
| Simple syrup | 3/4 oz | Adjust for sweeter taste |
| Club soda | 3 oz | For fizzy refreshment |
| Lemon wheel | 1 slice | Garnish |
| Ice cubes | As needed |
Instructions:
- Fill a Collins glass with ice cubes.
- Pour in 2 ounces of Red Stag and 1 ounce of fresh lemon juice.
- Add 3/4 ounce of simple syrup for balanced sweetness.
- Top with 3 ounces of club soda.
- Stir gently to mix all ingredients.
- Garnish with a slice of lemon on the rim.
Tip: Adjust the simple syrup quantity based on your preferred sweetness level.
Red Stag Cherry Cola
Bringing together the rich flavors of Red Stag and the familiar fizz of cola, the Red Stag Cherry Cola is a playful yet classic mix.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Measurement | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Red Stag bourbon | 2 oz | Enhances cherry flavor |
| Cola | 4 oz | Use your favorite brand |
| Lime wedge | 1 | Garnish and squeeze |
| Ice cubes | As needed |
Instructions:
- Fill a Highball glass with ice cubes.
- Pour in 2 ounces of Red Stag bourbon.
- Top off with 4 ounces of cola.
- Stir gently to combine.
- Garnish with a fresh lime wedge. Squeeze lime juice in before sipping to add bright acidity.
Tip: Using chilled cola and fresh ice maximizes the refreshing fizz and maintains the cocktail’s crisp texture.
Creative Red Stag Cocktail Recipes
Let’s dive into some exciting and innovative Red Stag drink recipes that showcase the bold cherry notes and smooth bourbon base in unique new ways.
Red Stag Maple Mule
This cocktail puts a flavorful spin on the classic Mule by adding rich maple syrup to complement the natural black cherry essence of Red Stag bourbon.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz Red Stag Bourbon
- 1 oz fresh lime juice
- 0.5 oz pure maple syrup
- 4 oz ginger beer
- Ice cubes
- Lime wheel and fresh mint sprig for garnish
Instructions:
- Fill a copper mule mug with ice cubes.
- Pour the Red Stag bourbon, lime juice, and maple syrup over the ice.
- Top with ginger beer and stir gently to combine.
- Garnish with a lime wheel and a sprig of fresh mint.
The spicy ginger beer and smooth maple syrup create a perfect harmony that highlights the bourbon’s cherry depth.
Red Stag Spiced Apple Cider
A warm and cozy cocktail ideal for fall. This drink marries Red Stag’s cherry flavor with spiced apple cider and warm spices.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz Red Stag Bourbon
- 4 oz hot apple cider
- 0.25 oz fresh lemon juice
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 2 cloves
- Apple slice and star anise for garnish
Instructions:
- Warm apple cider with cinnamon stick and cloves in a small pot over low heat for 5 minutes. Remove spices.
- In a heatproof glass or mug, combine heated cider, Red Stag bourbon, and lemon juice.
- Stir gently and garnish with an apple slice and star anise.
This cocktail’s aromatic spices enrich the cherry-forward bourbon creating a comforting, flavorful experience.
Red Stag Berry Smash
A bright and fruity cocktail that blends fresh berries with Red Stag Bourbon’s black cherry profile for a vibrant sipping experience.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz Red Stag Bourbon
- 0.75 oz fresh lemon juice
- 0.5 oz simple syrup
- 5 fresh mixed berries (blackberries, raspberries, blueberries)
- Club soda to top
- Ice cubes
- Fresh mint and berry skewer for garnish
Instructions:
- In a shaker, muddle the fresh berries with lemon juice and simple syrup.
- Add Red Stag bourbon and ice. Shake vigorously for 15 seconds.
- Strain into a Highball glass filled with ice.
- Top with club soda and stir gently.
- Garnish with fresh mint and a skewer of mixed berries.
The tart berries combined with cherry-rich bourbon create a fresh and delightful cocktail for any occasion.
Key Elements Comparison
| Cocktail | Bourbon (oz) | Citrus (oz) | Sweetener | Special Ingredient | Garnish |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Red Stag Maple Mule | 2 | 1 (lime) | 0.5 oz maple syrup | Ginger beer | Lime wheel, mint |
| Red Stag Spiced Apple Cider | 2 | 0.25 (lemon) | None | Spiced apple cider | Apple slice, star anise |
| Red Stag Berry Smash | 2 | 0.75 (lemon) | 0.5 oz simple syrup | Fresh mixed berries | Mint sprig, berry skewer |
By experimenting with these creative recipes we unlock new dimensions of flavor in our favorite Red Stag bourbon cocktails.
Preparation And Mixing Instructions
To craft the perfect Red Stag drink, precise preparation and careful mixing are essential. Following these detailed steps ensures each cocktail highlights the rich cherry flavor and smooth bourbon character.
Preparing Ingredients
Gathering and prepping all ingredients beforehand streamlines the mixing process and maintains freshness for vibrant flavors.
- Red Stag Bourbon: Chill the bottle before mixing for optimal taste.
- Fresh Citrus: Roll limes and lemons on the countertop to maximize juice extraction. Use a fine strainer to remove pulp and seeds.
- Simple Syrup: Prepare in advance by dissolving equal parts sugar and water; cool before use.
- Ice: Use clear, fresh ice cubes or spheres to slow dilution and keep drinks crisp.
- Mixers & Garnishes: Wash and slice fresh fruits such as cherries, oranges, or berries. Store herbs like mint or rosemary in cold water until ready to use.
| Ingredient | Preparation Tip | Storage Suggestion |
|---|---|---|
| Red Stag Bourbon | Chill in fridge | Keep upright in a cool place |
| Fresh Lime/Lemon | Roll and juice | Juice immediately for freshness |
| Simple Syrup | Prepare 1:1 sugar-water ratio | Refrigerate in sealed container |
| Ice | Use clear cubes/spheres | Keep frozen until serving |
| Fresh Fruits | Wash and slice | Refrigerate covered |
| Fresh Herbs | Rinse and trim | Store in cold water |
Step-by-Step Mixing Directions
Follow these active steps precisely to create rich and balanced Red Stag cocktails:
- Measure carefully: Use a jigger to pour the correct volume of Red Stag bourbon (usually 1.5 to 2 oz). Precise measurement guarantees flavor balance.
- Add citrus juice: Measure fresh lime or lemon juice according to the recipe (typically 0.5 to 1 oz). Pour it into the shaker or mixing glass.
- Incorporate simple syrup or mixers: Add sweeteners or mixers like ginger beer following specified amounts.
- Fill with ice: Add enough ice to chill the drink thoroughly without over-diluting.
- Shake or stir: For shaken cocktails, seal the shaker and shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds. For stirred drinks, gently mix with a bar spoon for 30 seconds.
- Strain and pour: Use a fine strainer to remove ice shards or pulp, pouring the smooth liquid into the chosen glassware.
- Top with soda or garnish as directed: Add club soda or cola carefully to retain fizz.
“Consistency is key — this method enhances the signature cherry flavor blended with Red Stag’s smooth bourbon base.”
Garnishing And Serving Tips
Garnishes amplify visual appeal and complement the drink’s aroma and taste. Here’s how we elevate each cocktail:
- Fresh Cherry or Orange Slice: Use a skewered maraschino cherry or a thin orange wheel perched on the glass rim.
- Herb Sprig: Lightly slap mint or rosemary between hands to release essential oils before garnishing.
- Citrus Twist: Peel a thin strip of lemon or lime zest and twist it over the glass to release fragrant oils before dropping it in.
- Glassware Presentation: Serve chilled cocktails in the recommended glassware to maintain authenticity and temperature.
- Serve Immediately: Present cocktails as soon as they are mixed to preserve freshness, fizz, and aromatic intensity.
Make-Ahead And Storage Tips
Planning ahead can elevate our Red Stag drink experience. By preparing cocktails in advance and storing them correctly, we ensure every sip delivers fresh, vibrant flavors.
Preparing Cocktails In Advance
When we make Red Stag cocktails ahead of time, we focus on maintaining the balance between the bold black cherry bourbon and complementary mixers. Here are key steps:
- Batch the cocktail: Use a large pitcher or bottle to combine ingredients, except for carbonated elements like club soda or ginger beer, which should be added just before serving.
- Chill thoroughly: Refrigerate the pre-mixed cocktail for at least 2 hours to allow flavors to meld and drink to chill evenly.
- Avoid dilution: Do not add ice during storage. Add fresh ice only when serving to prevent unwanted dilution.
- Pre-cut garnishes: Prepare fruit slices, herbs, or cherries separately and store in airtight containers to retain freshness.
“Making our Red Stag drinks in batches saves time and keeps the taste consistent, so we can enjoy moments with guests instead of mixing at the last minute.“
Proper Storage Tips
Proper storage preserves the quality and flavor profile of both the Red Stag bourbon and the cocktails we prepare. Follow these guidelines:
| Item | Storage Method | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bottled Red Stag bourbon | Upright in a cool, dark place | Indefinite | Avoid direct sunlight and temperature fluctuations |
| Pre-mixed non-carbonated cocktails | Airtight container refrigerated | Up to 48 hours | Best consumed within 24 hours for peak freshness |
| Garnishes (fruit, herbs) | Airtight container with damp paper towel, refrigerated | 1-2 days | Keep separate from liquids to maintain texture |
| Carbonated mixers | Store sealed in refrigerator | As per manufacturer | Add just before serving to retain fizz |
We always handle our Red Stag drink recipes with attention to preserving the smooth bourbon base and natural black cherry essence. This approach ensures every glass reflects the quality expected from Jim Beam’s signature infusion.
Conclusion
Exploring Red Stag drink recipes opens up a world of bold cherry flavors and smooth bourbon richness. Whether we’re crafting timeless classics or experimenting with creative twists, the versatility of Red Stag makes every cocktail an opportunity to impress.
With the right ingredients, tools, and techniques, we can consistently create drinks that elevate any occasion. Embracing these recipes means enjoying not just great taste but also the satisfaction of mastering a truly unique bourbon experience. Let’s raise our glasses to discovering new favorites and sharing memorable moments with Red Stag.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Red Stag by Jim Beam?
Red Stag by Jim Beam is a bourbon infused with natural black cherry flavors, providing a rich, smooth profile that enhances classic and creative cocktails.
What ingredients are essential for making Red Stag cocktails?
Key ingredients include Red Stag bourbon, premium ice, simple syrup, fresh lime and lemon juice, and club soda. Optional additions like ginger beer, cola, and fresh fruit can personalize your drink.
What glassware is best for Red Stag cocktail recipes?
Old Fashioned, Highball, Coupe, Collins, and Whiskey Tumbler glasses are recommended to match different cocktail styles and enhance presentation.
Can I prepare Red Stag cocktails ahead of time?
Yes, you can batch cocktails in advance. Chill thoroughly and add ice only when serving to avoid dilution and maintain flavor balance.
What tools do I need to make the perfect Red Stag drink?
Essential tools include jiggers for measuring, cocktail shakers, bar spoons, strainers, and muddlers to ensure precise and consistent mixing.
What are some popular Red Stag cocktail recipes?
Popular recipes include the Red Stag Old Fashioned, Red Stag Lemonade, and Red Stag Cherry Cola, each highlighting the bourbon’s signature cherry notes.
How should I store Red Stag bourbon and pre-mixed cocktails?
Store Red Stag bourbon in a cool, dark place. Pre-mixed cocktails should be refrigerated and garnishes kept fresh separately for best quality.
Are there spicy or warm Red Stag cocktail options?
Yes, innovative recipes like the Red Stag Spiced Apple Cider combine bourbon with warm spices, offering a cozy, flavorful experience.
How can I enhance the cherry flavor in Red Stag drinks?
Use fresh citrus, simple syrup, and complementary mixers like cola or ginger beer, plus garnish with maraschino cherries or fresh fruit slices.
Why is precise preparation important for Red Stag cocktails?
Accurate measuring, proper stirring or shaking, and good garnishing maximize flavor balance, aroma, and presentation, ensuring the best drinking experience.